Well the 49ers-Raiders practice is over and I can't wait for Friday to roll around. So, how will this game go?

49ers run offense vs. Raiders run defense: The Raiders were alert against the run in the joint-practice. If they were aloud to tackle more, they could have played very well. However, Gore's limited action doesn't really give you a good feel. If Scott plays like he did in the joint-practice, he'll continue to get in the backfield and close off running lanes. The linebackers were the heart and soul of Monday's performance. Look for them to make some plays. Raiders 1; 49ers 0

49ers pass offense vs. Raider pass defense: You have to remember that Asomugha didn't practice and burgess was out in the evening. But there was no excuse for Hall's demise yesterday. He was beat for two touchdowns. Hall needs to step up some. Thomas showed that the linebackers will play the pass as well as they did the run. If there's going to be any picks, they'll belong to the linebackers. Burgess is expected to play (he came down with the same symptoms as Asomugha) so forcing pressure shouldn't be too hard. It's hard to judge our pass rush from yesterday's news, as quarterbacks were not to be tackled/sacked. If Scott, Burgess, and Spires do as well as yesterday, we'll get plenty of pressure. This will be the most interesting matchup. Raiders 1.5; 49ers .5

Raiders run offense vs. 49ers run defense: McFadden, Fargas, and Bush all ran very well with a lot of help from the O-Line. We all know that pathetic backs could perform well with this line, but add great backs with different run styles, and you have a dominating unit. McFadden matched up well against pro bowl linebacker Pat Willis. I think everyone needs to watch our run game. Take careful looks at Bush and McFadden. Raiders 2.5; 49ers .5

Raiders pass offense vs. 49ers pass defense: Our O-line has frequent troubles pass blocking. They were dazed and confused trying to figure out who was blitzing and who wasn't. I think that now that we have some knowledge of San Francisco's scheme, we won't have as many problems, but expect frequent pressure. Miller was regarded as "uncoverable" as long as he wasn't pass blocking. The RB need to register the blitz better and the line has to keep with their man. Raiders 2.5; 49ers 1.5

So by my count we should win this game. It's pretty meaningless seeing as how it's an exhibition game, but there's some important things to watch for.

What to Watch for:

McFadden:  Keep a close eye on McFadden in this game. He played well in the joint-practice, but we'll see how he does in real action. Also, pay attention to his receiving skills. He's had difficulty in this area and we'll have to see how he does in a game environment.

Kwame Harris in the passing game: You may be wondering why I put pass game specifically. We all know he plays the run nicely, but pass blocking is his main concern. He's been getting better with each practice, this will show how much better he's gotten. Our success this year relies on his ability.

Hoping for a win,

KA1Z3R